Huiji Temple

I took a ride out to Zhishan on the metro (get an ‘EasyCard’ from a vending machine if you’re going to use the metro a fair bit) and then walked about half a mile to Zhishan Hill (Yuanshanzai – which I’m guessing means something like garden mountain). This is the home of Huiji Si (Huiji Temple). On the way are a few signs to note (is that the Taiwanese Colonel Sanders?).

One thing many do not realize about temples is that they aren’t generic sites of deity worship, but often built to revere a specific hero from times gone by like a general or scholar. For Huiji that is one Kaizhang Sheng Wang, the sage founding king of Chnag region.

At the base of the hill, you can find goats (in the same sense as the cows), a gate (complete with LED message board), some immortals and Fu Lions.

Next, climb some stairs – 226 steps (you don’t need to count – the numbers are carved) but on the way you can’t fail to notice a few things. Each side is made up of segments depicting different scenes and more Fu Lions…

Near the bottom, off to the right is a scene that might remind westerners of the Virgin Mary and Fairies at the bottom of the garden. A slow dripping fountain and curious little men in various poses ranging from tiredness to anger.

At the top is another gate, before the temple courtyard, more Fu Lions and the garden at the top of the hill.

The front of the temple is incredibly ornate. It’s common for dragons and immortals to adorn the roofs.

The courtyard has a few other noteworthy items.

No the Nazis didn’t make it here – The Swastika (though note the arms point the other way compared to the 3rd Reich) is an ancient Hindu/Buddhist symbol. Into the garden and there are more outbuildings and the odd dog (curiously I’ve found a number of dogs roaming seemingly wild, though they don’t bother people and better still, do not appear to be rabid).

There are also a few fireplaces where requests may be offered up.

Another significant shrine outside the main temple.

The little metal table is for offerings – inside the main temple I saw chips and fruit, though I didn’t see any monks so not sure this is a working temple. BTW, the locals seemed fine taking photos outside, but I always avoid inside photos as a mark of respect – I sometimes feel a little intrusive just being there.

Finally, take in the view of the distant hilltops from this highpoint.